Abstract: The partial tempering of rolled wire (WD) takes place in a quenching chamber (2), which is disposed following the winding layer (1). Thus work can proceed at the typical rolling speeds of up to 120 m/s, and the annular disposition of the wire in the quenching chamber makes it possible for the cooling line required for tempering to be much shorter. The rolled wire (WD) is shaped into loops (S) in the state in which it is still hot from the rolling mill, and as a result excessuve abrasion of the winding layer (1) does not occur, and the cooled wire has no strains, because the hardened steel does not have to be bent.